It is 6pm and you need a hug in a bowl. This Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy is the ultimate comfort food for busy families. It is fast, filling, and smells like home.
There is something magical about a hot skillet on a crisp fall evening. This recipe delivers big flavor without the stress. You can have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it uses basic pantry staples. You probably have everything in your kitchen right now. It is budget-friendly and kid-approved for any night of the week.
Your family will love the rich, savory sauce. It feels like a fancy diner meal made in your own home. It is the perfect way to stretch a pound of beef into a full feast.
Simple Method
Making this dish is very simple and straightforward. You just sear the patties and make a quick gravy in one pan. One skillet means minimal cleanup for you tonight.
Even beginners can master this rich onion sauce. The flour and broth create a silky texture every time. You will feel like a pro chef in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together to create deep, complex flavors.
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix by hand until just combined; do not overwork.
- Form the mixture into four equal-sized oval patties, approximately 3/4-inch thick.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the patties to the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a brown crust forms. Remove patties from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are softened and lightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to incorporate with the fat.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce while whisking or stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer. Once thickened, return the beef patties and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the patties are cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Serve the patties immediately, smothered with the onion gravy.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these juicy patties over creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy is perfect for soaking into every bite. Add some steamed green beans for a fresh touch. It is a complete meal in minutes for your family.
For a cozy night in, light a candle and enjoy the warmth. This dish also pairs beautifully with buttered egg noodles. You will want to savor every last drop of that onion gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. This makes for a fantastic easy lunch the next day. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.
This helps keep the meat tender and juicy. You can also freeze the cooked patties in gravy for later. Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the 80/20 beef for the best flavor.
- Avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Slice onions very thin so they soften quickly.
- Whisk the broth slowly to ensure a smooth gravy.
- For a fall twist, add a pinch of dried thyme.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 160°F.
- Let the patties rest for two minutes before serving.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add sliced mushrooms with the onions for extra earthiness.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter meal.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour to make it allergy-friendly.
- Stir in a spoonful of sour cream for a creamy sauce.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the patties the night before. Keep them covered in the fridge until you are ready. This makes your weeknight dinner even faster to prepare.
What if my gravy is too thick?
Simply whisk in a little more beef broth. Add one tablespoon at a time until it is perfect. You want it to coat the back of a spoon.
Will my kids like the onions?
The onions become very soft and sweet as they cook. Most kids love the flavor once they are caramelized. You can always dice them very small instead.
I hope this cozy Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy brightens your fall evenings. Give it a try and let every bite warm you up. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Hamburger Steak with Onion Gravy
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg , lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into rings
- 2 tablespoons all -purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix by hand until just combined; do not overwork.
- Form the mixture into four equal-sized oval patties, approximately 3/4-inch thick.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the patties to the skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a brown crust forms. Remove patties from the pan and set aside on a plate.
- Add the sliced onions to the same skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are softened and lightly caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to incorporate with the fat.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce while whisking or stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the gravy to a simmer. Once thickened, return the beef patties and any accumulated juices to the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes until the patties are cooked through to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Serve the patties immediately, smothered with the onion gravy.
